PCB pursues foreign coaches, including Justin Langer and Gary Kirsten, for national team

NEW DELHI: Following Shane Watson's rejection of an offer, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated discussions with several foreign coaches, notably Justin Langer and Gary Kirsten, to assume the role of head coach for the national team on a long-term basis.

According to reports from the "Jang" newspaper, the PCB has reached out to high-profile candidates such as Langer, Kirsten, Mike Hesson, Matthew Hayden, Eoin Morgan, and Phil Simmons.

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PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need for foreign coaching and support staff, particularly in light of upcoming ICC events like the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy.

Naqvi's stance marks a departure from the approach of former PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf, who had opted for domestic former players as coaches, sidelining foreign coaches Mickey Arthur, Grant Bradburn, and Andrew Puttick after the World Cup in India.

Under a mutual agreement, the foreign coaches were released from their contracts with three months' salaries. However, a board official acknowledged that the PCB's inconsistent track record in appointing and terminating coaches, both foreign and local, has made potential candidates hesitant to accept offers from the board.

"It is because of the PCB's poor track record in appointing and sacking coaches -- foreign and local -- in the past that others are now very reluctant to accept any offer from the PCB," conceded the board official.

The PCB's pursuit of experienced foreign coaches underscores its commitment to strengthening the national team's coaching setup ahead of crucial international tournaments, signaling a strategic shift in its approach to team management.

(With inputs from PTI)